Are canned fruits & veggies nutritious?

We live in a world of abundance and convenience. So more often than not most of us grab for canned, boxed packaged foods to help whip together a quick meal.

As far as canned foods go I would try and limit them as much as possible. Fresh and frozen rank better most often. Almost all canned foods contain BPA (Bisphenol A) an industrial chemical that poses all sorts of health issues, especially for those with compromised immune systems, elderly or pregnant women. As well as high levels of sodium, unless you get the no salt options. But,

when time is of the essence and you’re trying to be healthy, it’s an acceptible substitute. Canned foods can be cheaper, last long and some have found to be more nutritious — the lycopene in tomatoes is greater in canned versions than eating it fresh. Canned corn and carrots also ranked better canned. according to a 2006 American Dietetic Association study.

When using canned foods I suggest the following:

Buy BPA-free brands: Here is a link from Treehugger on brands you can trust. Eden Farms being the most accessible.

Buy low-or no- salt and sugar varieties: Many canned and packaged foods contain way too much salt and sugar. Added spices to the food while cooking to help enhance the flavor. Choose fruits without the heavy syrup.

Wipe the cans before opening: This will help cut down on anything bad on the outside from getting into the food.

Rinse and drain: After opening the can, pour the food into the strainer and rinse throughly with water to help reduce the salt content.

What do you think of canned foods? Do you find them helpful to maintaining a healthy diet on the go?

Despite what is told (magazines, etc.), I still believe fresh (in either case) is best. I do love several types of canned fruit, but fresh is really best. I think I eat canned fruit in winter when supplies of pitted fruit are limited.